Feng’s Ligand Enables Efficient Synthesis of Tetrasubstituted Thiiranes via Asymmetric Cycloaddition

10 Dec

Feng’s Ligand Enables Efficient Synthesis of Tetrasubstituted Thiiranes via Asymmetric Cycloaddition

On February 26, 2022, the team led by Professor Feng Xiaoming and Professor Wu Yundong published their latest research in Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. under the title:
“Asymmetric Catalytic (2+1) Cycloaddition of Thioketones to Synthesize Tetrasubstituted Thiiranes.”

In this study, the researchers employed Feng’s ligand to catalyze an asymmetric (2+1) cycloaddition between α-diazopyrazole amides and thioketones, successfully synthesizing tetrasubstituted episulfide propane compounds (see Figure 1). These intermediates were further derivatized to yield tetrasubstituted alkenes with high cis-to-trans selectivity [1].

Figure 1. "Fon's ligand" catalyzes the reaction to synthesize tetratriethyl episulfide compounds (for example: 1595283, 1595285)

This work solves a long-standing challenge in the field—the stereoselective synthesis of tetrasubstituted episulfide propane compounds—by establishing a new, efficient synthetic route. The rapid reaction process and high selectivity underscore the power of Feng’s ligand, once again proving its value in complex asymmetric catalysis.

What Is Feng’s Ligand?

Feng’s ligand is a chiral dinitroxide–metal complex formed by combining a dinitroxide compound with over 20 types of metal ion ligands, including main group metals, rare earth metals, and transition metals. Its unique three-dimensional electronic structure enables it to catalyze more than 70 types of asymmetric reactions with remarkable efficiency and selectivity.

Notably, it has enabled the development of more than 10 new asymmetric catalytic reactions that were previously considered unachievable—representing a true “0 to 1” breakthrough in the field.

Applications of Feng’s ligand extend widely across:

Pharmaceuticals
Agrochemicals
Cosmetics
Food additives

It is regarded as a pivotal innovation in advancing China's asymmetric catalysis and chiral compound synthesis research.

Achievements of Professor Feng Xiaoming

With decades of dedicated research, Professor Feng Xiaoming has made significant contributions to the field of chiral chemistry. His achievements have earned him numerous prestigious awards, including:

The Future Science Award in Physical Science
The Ho Leung Ho Lee Foundation Science and Technology Progress Award
The Tan Kah Kee Science Award – Chemical Science Award

Key Advantages of Feng’s Ligand

Tunable & Modifiable:
Adaptable for a wide variety of asymmetric organic reactions.
Mild & Efficient Reaction Conditions:
Fast reactions, high yields, and minimal by-products.
Cost-Effective & Stable:
Reduces industrial production costs with stable physical and chemical properties.
Exclusively Supplied by J&K Scientific:
Available in high purity, with multiple packaging options and ample stock.